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Visser returns for Scotland’s trip to Rome

Date published: February 25 2016

Fit-again Scotland wing Tim Visser is the only change to the starting Scotland side named today to face Italy this Saturday at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

Visser – who has scored 10 tries in 23 Tests – was included in the original squad, but a hamstring injury ruled him out of the opening rounds, returning to action in the past fortnight with two 80-minute outings for his club side Harlequins.

His inclusion in an otherwise unchanged team sees cap centurion Sean Lamont move to the bench, where head coach Vern Cotter has made four further changes.

Exeter Chiefs prop Moray Low will look to add to his 29 caps with a first appearance for Scotland since the 2014 June tour, while 23-year-old Edinburgh loosehead, Rory Sutherland, is primed for his international debut.

Other changes on the bench see Glasgow Warriors back-row Ryan Wilson and centre Peter Horne named among the replacements, after returning to the squad this week, with Horne proving his readiness in Glasgow Warriors’ bonus-point win over Munster.

Scotland head coach, Vern Cotter, said: “After a week off from the Championship, we have returned to camp fresh and fit, and have prepared well for what will be another formidable opponent.

“Italy have shown they are a talented team, particularly in their performance away against France, but also against England.

“They surprised both teams with their physicality, intensity and quality, all of which we will have to be ready for, and at least equal to, if we are to win in Rome this weekend.

“We have worked hard to improve our game and will stay true to the core values of this team, which is to work hard but stay calm; have belief in our systems, ourselves, and enjoy the opportunity.”